At the June 9, City Council meeting, Council members took action and were presented information on several agenda items. The meeting featured a public hearing Community Development Block Grant- Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) fund allocation, a presentation on Helene Recovery progress, adoption of the proposed FY27 budget, and continued investment in our community. Each demonstrated the Council’s focus on transparency, accountability, and thoughtful decision-making.
Complete details on all agenda items and actions are available in the official meeting materials available on the City of Asheville website and a complete recording of the session is available on the City of Asheville YouTube channel.
Helene Recovery Items
Manager’s Report – Quarterly Helene Recovery Update
This presentation covers the status of various Helene recovery funding programs including FEMA Public Assistance (PA), Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), and Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) for small business support and community priorities.
This public hearing considers changing how disaster recovery grant funds are allocated. The proposal would move $19.2 million from the Affordable Multi-Family Housing Construction Program and the Infrastructure Program to the Single-Family Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Program.
- Affordable Multi-Family Housing funding would decrease from $28 million to $18.8 million.
- Infrastructure funding would decrease from $125 million to $115 million.
- Single-Family Reconstruction and Rehabilitation funding would increase from $3 million to $22.2 million.
“Our priority is ensuring disaster recovery resources are reaching the people who need them most. This reallocation significantly expands our ability to help homeowners repair and rebuild storm-damaged homes while continuing to invest in affordable housing and critical infrastructure,” said Community and Economic Development Director Nikki Reid. “We remain committed to making thoughtful decisions that support long-term recovery and help Asheville residents secure safe, stable, and affordable housing.”
Unfinished Business – Resolution amending and replacing Resolution Number 26-96 adopted on May 12, 2026 concerning Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery funds APPROVED 6 – 1
This resolution approves $9.5 million in federal disaster recovery housing funds for the Terrace at River Hills affordable housing project, developed by Mountain Housing Opportunities and South Creek Development.
Budget
Change to original proposed budget: Motion to adopt the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Annual Budget ordinance with the following adjustments to the form presented by the City Manager: 1. Reinstatement of the additional 1% 401K employer contribution; and 2. An adjustment of the Fiscal Year 2026-27 General Fund tax rate to $37.69 per $100 of assessed valuation. APPROVED 4-3
Adoption of the 2026-2027 (FY27) Annual Operating Budget.
View Presentation on Annual Operating Budget
Non Helene Related Community Investment
Under Unfinished Business:
Change to original Resolution: Motion to authorize the submission of the 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant Program and HOME Investment Partnerships Program action plan with the change of $96,970 the lead pipes program moving to the Public services of Homeward Bound APPROVED 7-0
This resolution authorizes City staff to submit the City’s 2026–2027 Annual Action Plan to the U.S, Department of Housing and Urban and Housing Development (HUD). The plan outlines how federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME funds will be used to address local housing and community development needs, ensuring the City remains eligible for funding and complies with federal requirements.
“The Annual Action Plan is an important step in ensuring Asheville continues to support affordable housing and community development projects”, said Community Development Division Manager James Shelton. “The plan outlines how these resources will be invested to address priorities identified in the City’s Consolidated Plan, and the public comment process helps ensure community input is reflected before the plan is submitted to HUD.”